The European Free Trade Association celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2010. The creation of EFTA in order to promote free trade and economic integration is part of the post-war political history of Europe. EFTA has adapted to the many challenges that have taken place and while the membership has been reduced, the activities have expanded both in terms of geography and substance.

Today, the focus of EFTA is on the negotiation and maintenance of the free trade agreements with countries outside the European Union and the administration of the Agreement on the European Economic Area (EEA).

Through its articles and photographs, the book provides a unique insight into EFTA’s past and present. It contains contributions from a seminar in Geneva on 10 November 2009. Leaders from government and academia came together to mark the 50th anniversary of EFTA and the 15th anniversary of the EEA. Under the theme, “EFTA 1960-2010 - Partners in Progress”, the speakers focused on the development of EFTA in the wider European context and the benefits for the member states.